NEW Westcliff skipper Rob Smith insists his side are targeting an immediate return to National League Three London & SE this season.

Westcliff were relegated last term and kick off their London One North campaign at home to North Walsham this weekend.

But Smith believes the squad are more than capable of bouncing back at the first attempt.

“We have kept most of our players, a few new lads have come in, plus others are fit after being injured and there’s a really positive vibe around the place so I think we can do well this season,” said Smith.

“Pre-season has gone well and we’ve probably done more running than rugby so our fitness levels are high.

“We’ve set our sights high and, although we will be taking it a game at a time, we’re confident we can be going for promotion and that has to be our aim.”

Westcliff spent two seasons playing in National League Three London & SE, the highest level in their history.

But Smith believes they can actually benefit from being back in London One North.

“There’s two ways of looking at it but I think they will be a winning vive here again and that will help the youngsters coming through,” said Smith, 24.

“It’s an honour to be captaining them and I would like to think I have a good relationship with the players.

“My main job will be to make sure we all remain level headed but we’re looking forward to the challenges ahead.”

Westcliff’s first test comes against North Walsham on Saturday.

And Smith is not too sure what to expect.

“They’ve played at a higher level in the past so I’m sure they’ll be strong but we don’t actually know too much about them,” said Smith.

“It will be like that with a lot of the teams this season but I think that will work in our favour as we can just worry about ourselves.”